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Wild Bond #1
Wild Bond
A thief who becomes a dragon rider…
After surviving two years in the castle dungeons for a crime she didn’t exactly commit, a stroke of luck allows Corrine Darrow a second chance at freedom. During the Bonding Celebrations—the one time each year when wild dragons find their riders—Rin is given the opportunity to petition her case. But her hopes are quickly dashed when she is brought before the queen’s ruthless spymaster—the very dragon rider who captured her in the first place.
When Rake’s intense gaze locks on her once more, Rin is sure he will send her back to her cell. But before her future can be decided, fate intercedes. Now, Rin must train to become a dragon rider, one of the fierce warriors who protect her world. That won’t be easy with Rin’s thieving reputation, the fellow trainees that mistrust her, and the fiery attraction she feels towards a man she should despise.
After surviving two years in the castle dungeons for a crime she didn’t exactly commit, a stroke of luck allows Corrine Darrow a second chance at freedom. During the Bonding Celebrations—the one time each year when wild dragons find their riders—Rin is given the opportunity to petition her case. But her hopes are quickly dashed when she is brought before the queen’s ruthless spymaster—the very dragon rider who captured her in the first place.
When Rake’s intense gaze locks on her once more, Rin is sure he will send her back to her cell. But before her future can be decided, fate intercedes. Now, Rin must train to become a dragon rider, one of the fierce warriors who protect her world. That won’t be easy with Rin’s thieving reputation, the fellow trainees that mistrust her, and the fiery attraction she feels towards a man she should despise.
427 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2023
360 people are currently reading
1568 people want to read
About the author
Laurie Ford
3 books41 followersLaurie Ford has been escaping into fantasy worlds since she was ten years old and dreaming about being an author for almost as long. She has a degree in Creative Writing and has always loved fantasy and romance. When not reading or writing, Laurie can be found teaching preschool, watching movies, and enjoying time with friends and family. She lives in Utah surrounded by too many books to count.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
dnf
July 9, 2023DNFed on p. 143 out of 427 (33%)
The man is insta-love and the girl is completely oblivious to an annoying degree since she's also insta-love for him. I like her lil dragon, but this reads like YA, and I'm an adult fantasy gal. I'm also real sick of the mean girl bully squad trope. It's giving high school vibes.
If you like dragons and broody men who fall for the underdog heroine for seemingly no reason, you'll probs like this. I'm just in a bit of a reading slump, and this is a bit too basic/predictable to get me out of it. It's not poorly written or anything. Just too juvenile.
The man is insta-love and the girl is completely oblivious to an annoying degree since she's also insta-love for him. I like her lil dragon, but this reads like YA, and I'm an adult fantasy gal. I'm also real sick of the mean girl bully squad trope. It's giving high school vibes.
If you like dragons and broody men who fall for the underdog heroine for seemingly no reason, you'll probs like this. I'm just in a bit of a reading slump, and this is a bit too basic/predictable to get me out of it. It's not poorly written or anything. Just too juvenile.
July 1, 2025
Truly a favorite of mine!
You had me at Dragons and Dragon Riders!!! But I so loved the story and amazing characters. I'm so happy that their love was not denied. Often, love stories are dragged out far too long, and you want to throw the book across the room. I couldn't put this book down (who cares about sleep). I devoured it, and now I'm at a loss that I have finished it. Love finding stories that make me feel the characters and want to maybe live it or wish it were real. Loved Rake and Rin's relationship and their love for each other. And don't you forget her and Skye, her beautiful Dragon and their magical bond. I hope to read more of their moments and future. Will definitely be rereading this again, and I look forward to the next book!
You had me at Dragons and Dragon Riders!!! But I so loved the story and amazing characters. I'm so happy that their love was not denied. Often, love stories are dragged out far too long, and you want to throw the book across the room. I couldn't put this book down (who cares about sleep). I devoured it, and now I'm at a loss that I have finished it. Love finding stories that make me feel the characters and want to maybe live it or wish it were real. Loved Rake and Rin's relationship and their love for each other. And don't you forget her and Skye, her beautiful Dragon and their magical bond. I hope to read more of their moments and future. Will definitely be rereading this again, and I look forward to the next book!
January 27, 2025
better than Fourth Wing…
4.7 / 5.0 I really enjoyed this book and bonus, lots of dragons! The only thing I wasn’t a huge fan of was the age gap and the power imbalance of the main characters, but the FMC is very well written and they actually talk. There is no miscommunication trope here, if they have a misunderstanding they work it out within the conversation happening.
There is some mystery in the plot, a little have vs have not going on, but it is well crafted and entertaining. This blends perfectly a plot driven story with a character driven one, and I am excited for the next book. This book is able to be a standalone, you’re not left with a cliffhanger per se, but the next one will follow other characters in furthering the overall direction of the world plot.
It is a slow burn, there are numerous tropes here (enemies to lovers, one bed/saddle, possessive MMC) but they are not overdone or pedantic.
Overall, this was good and I recommend for anyone that enjoyed Fourth Wing but wanted more story, more world building, less goofy mechanisms surrounding the spice, and more dragons!!
Until Next Time,
MC
4.7 / 5.0 I really enjoyed this book and bonus, lots of dragons! The only thing I wasn’t a huge fan of was the age gap and the power imbalance of the main characters, but the FMC is very well written and they actually talk. There is no miscommunication trope here, if they have a misunderstanding they work it out within the conversation happening.
There is some mystery in the plot, a little have vs have not going on, but it is well crafted and entertaining. This blends perfectly a plot driven story with a character driven one, and I am excited for the next book. This book is able to be a standalone, you’re not left with a cliffhanger per se, but the next one will follow other characters in furthering the overall direction of the world plot.
It is a slow burn, there are numerous tropes here (enemies to lovers, one bed/saddle, possessive MMC) but they are not overdone or pedantic.
Overall, this was good and I recommend for anyone that enjoyed Fourth Wing but wanted more story, more world building, less goofy mechanisms surrounding the spice, and more dragons!!
Until Next Time,
MC
August 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this story! It was well-paced and kept me engaged from beginning to end. (My current sleep deprivation is proof.) The protagonist was capable, compassionate, and strong, while refreshingly imperfect. I particularly appreciated a male lead who was powerful without being overbearing or controlling. The world was rich with detail, and Wild Bond did a great job of detailing what was necessary for this story while hinting at so many more possibilities to explore, including intriguing side characters. (Am I the only one loving on the hatchlings & little trainees?) This book's ending revealed the right amount be satisfying while leaving me wanting more. I can't wait for the next book!
November 3, 2025
3.5/5.0
Don’t let the rating fool you, I really did enjoy this story. This book, however, is the perfect example of professional knowledge getting in the way of personal enjoyment. As much as I wish I could just turn off all the red and yellow flags popping up in my head and happily enjoy a fabulous story…. I couldn’t. SOPE:
Personal loves:
. I LOVE Rin! She is a really wonderful character who shows both strength and weakness so perfectly that it’s impossible not to want her to succeed.
. I LOVE the dragons! And, they are developed in such a unique and fun way that they don’t feel cookie-cutter at all.
. I enjoyed the storyline immensely. It is the type one doesn’t want to put down.
Professional problems:
. There is absolutely NO development in the romance. The story starts with Rake and Rin being deadly adversaries. He was responsible for her scars and the fact she has just spent two years in a dark, dungeon being starved and tortured. But the very minute a dragon picks her, he is suddenly completely devoted and - dare I say - in love with her? Huh?!?!?!?! And that little tidbit is never explained, he just spends the entire book her devoted, yearning suitor. No idea why. This is so jarring that it really does lesson the overall enjoyment of the book because we can’t understand it!
. Lot’s of small holes in the story such as how Rin’s dragon miraculously broke through a bond spell, or how his/her…. Something…. Healed her after being thrown off a cliff and breaking her completely.
SO, I wanted badly to just ignore the little stuff because I was enjoying the big stuff so much, and I did to a certain extent. I just couldn’t rate it higher because of that pesky conscience. *I still wish I could up that star to a four, though.*
Don’t let the rating fool you, I really did enjoy this story. This book, however, is the perfect example of professional knowledge getting in the way of personal enjoyment. As much as I wish I could just turn off all the red and yellow flags popping up in my head and happily enjoy a fabulous story…. I couldn’t. SOPE:
Personal loves:
. I LOVE Rin! She is a really wonderful character who shows both strength and weakness so perfectly that it’s impossible not to want her to succeed.
. I LOVE the dragons! And, they are developed in such a unique and fun way that they don’t feel cookie-cutter at all.
. I enjoyed the storyline immensely. It is the type one doesn’t want to put down.
Professional problems:
. There is absolutely NO development in the romance. The story starts with Rake and Rin being deadly adversaries. He was responsible for her scars and the fact she has just spent two years in a dark, dungeon being starved and tortured. But the very minute a dragon picks her, he is suddenly completely devoted and - dare I say - in love with her? Huh?!?!?!?! And that little tidbit is never explained, he just spends the entire book her devoted, yearning suitor. No idea why. This is so jarring that it really does lesson the overall enjoyment of the book because we can’t understand it!
. Lot’s of small holes in the story such as how Rin’s dragon miraculously broke through a bond spell, or how his/her…. Something…. Healed her after being thrown off a cliff and breaking her completely.
SO, I wanted badly to just ignore the little stuff because I was enjoying the big stuff so much, and I did to a certain extent. I just couldn’t rate it higher because of that pesky conscience. *I still wish I could up that star to a four, though.*
August 16, 2023
Hmmmmmm. I kinda want to rate this 2 and a half but that seems low. But three also seems too high. Haha
I enjoyed this book for the most part. I’m very picky about reading books with dragons in them anyway, just because I feel like most authors don’t do them right. For example, Fourth Wing comes to mind. I DNF’d that book for multiple reasons, but I can’t say I liked how the dragons could speak to their chosen ones like normal people and behave as such. It didn’t make them seem fierce. But we aren’t here to talk about Fourth Wing. However, I’d say if you loved that book, then don’t read this one. Because you will likely find that they are quite similar. And chances are you’d hate this one for being like forth wing but “not as good”
Anyway, mostly my reviews consist of tiny nitpicks, and really I only have two in regards to Wild Bond.
First, the romance. It wasn’t really … believable. I feel like Rake (Rakim) just suddenly decided one day that he was head over heels for Rin and would do anything for her. And while later he admits what made him fall for her, you never got to see those things really play out? The qualities he listed were great, and you can definitely see them in Rin, but as a spymaster, he just witnesses these things in the background. You don’t get to see it, you get to hear about it. It was definitely a case of “need to show not tell.” Which is hard to do in writing, believe me. I understand. However, it lacks the charm and quality of the romance when it’s essentially not there. It’s not insta love but it’s not slow burn. It just exists one day. They didn’t interact enough beforehand. Yes, he trained her, but for the most part, any training sessions were described in a montage type sequence with lots of monologue and no dialogue. I hate books that have droning monologue. And this one has plenty for the first 20%
Also I’m going to add in here that Rin doesn’t really have notable friends. She makes some I guess, but you see them a handful of times and have minuscule interactions that it doesn’t even feel like she’s participating in the same training and exercises as other people. They just exist to give The Tower some charm. Really she only spends time with Rake and his friends. There was a severe lack of females in this book as well. Good ones, anyway. Either they were cold and heartless or they were a 10 year old girl who Rin already knew for a while before her imprisonment.
Which leads to my second nitpick: the lack of world building. Now, I’m not one who even really likes world building. I often find it boring and tedious to read about, especially when going over the history of things. But I’m not even talking about the history here (but there was a war a long time ago that many died in and I don’t even remember what for or if it was even explained well enough what the war was for, I might have just forgot). But Rin and Rake and everyone has no backstory. You get the typical dead parents, orphaned, steals off the streets to survive, but you don’t get the REAL in depth stuff. Like the whole idea of Rin stealing the sword and being imprisoned for it wasn’t explained well enough to make you even feel bad that she was caught and spent two years in an underground cell. It was to “protect a friend” which is later explained away as “doing it for them so they don’t get caught” but she gets caught anyway. The story behind stealing the sword was lackluster and the whole imprisonment thing felt like it was just a plot to get Rin out into that square that day she bonded with her dragon.
And speaking of, it’s never explained why the mature dragon chose a very matured woman to bond with. (In the book it’s explained that most bonding takes place during puberty, even for the dragons.) I guess Rin is just special and there’s nothing more to it?
I don’t know if there’s a sequel planned and if maybe these things get answered in a later book. Id be interested in reading it if there is, but currently there’s no evidence of one existing unless the author posts about it on her socials.
Overall, the book is well written (and more mature than fourth wing in my opinion) but there’s a lot of elements that weren’t put into it and make the overall story seem lackluster. It’s like no one had a motive for really doing anything other than they wanted to. The villains reveal and then downfall wasn’t that great either. There was no sense of urgency in this book to uncover the mastermind behind the sick people and dragons. And even when it was revealed what they were doing, it’s like an entire new element to it was added in to make it seem more dramatic when you never got to see it play out earlier in the book anyway to cause any uproar. Only when the climax of the fight occurred did we see it, and even then it was like … huh ?
Anyway, I think this is the authors debut novel, so it’s not too bad for a first book. There’s always room for improvement and the only way to do that is to keep writing!
I enjoyed this book for the most part. I’m very picky about reading books with dragons in them anyway, just because I feel like most authors don’t do them right. For example, Fourth Wing comes to mind. I DNF’d that book for multiple reasons, but I can’t say I liked how the dragons could speak to their chosen ones like normal people and behave as such. It didn’t make them seem fierce. But we aren’t here to talk about Fourth Wing. However, I’d say if you loved that book, then don’t read this one. Because you will likely find that they are quite similar. And chances are you’d hate this one for being like forth wing but “not as good”
Anyway, mostly my reviews consist of tiny nitpicks, and really I only have two in regards to Wild Bond.
First, the romance. It wasn’t really … believable. I feel like Rake (Rakim) just suddenly decided one day that he was head over heels for Rin and would do anything for her. And while later he admits what made him fall for her, you never got to see those things really play out? The qualities he listed were great, and you can definitely see them in Rin, but as a spymaster, he just witnesses these things in the background. You don’t get to see it, you get to hear about it. It was definitely a case of “need to show not tell.” Which is hard to do in writing, believe me. I understand. However, it lacks the charm and quality of the romance when it’s essentially not there. It’s not insta love but it’s not slow burn. It just exists one day. They didn’t interact enough beforehand. Yes, he trained her, but for the most part, any training sessions were described in a montage type sequence with lots of monologue and no dialogue. I hate books that have droning monologue. And this one has plenty for the first 20%
Also I’m going to add in here that Rin doesn’t really have notable friends. She makes some I guess, but you see them a handful of times and have minuscule interactions that it doesn’t even feel like she’s participating in the same training and exercises as other people. They just exist to give The Tower some charm. Really she only spends time with Rake and his friends. There was a severe lack of females in this book as well. Good ones, anyway. Either they were cold and heartless or they were a 10 year old girl who Rin already knew for a while before her imprisonment.
Which leads to my second nitpick: the lack of world building. Now, I’m not one who even really likes world building. I often find it boring and tedious to read about, especially when going over the history of things. But I’m not even talking about the history here (but there was a war a long time ago that many died in and I don’t even remember what for or if it was even explained well enough what the war was for, I might have just forgot). But Rin and Rake and everyone has no backstory. You get the typical dead parents, orphaned, steals off the streets to survive, but you don’t get the REAL in depth stuff. Like the whole idea of Rin stealing the sword and being imprisoned for it wasn’t explained well enough to make you even feel bad that she was caught and spent two years in an underground cell. It was to “protect a friend” which is later explained away as “doing it for them so they don’t get caught” but she gets caught anyway. The story behind stealing the sword was lackluster and the whole imprisonment thing felt like it was just a plot to get Rin out into that square that day she bonded with her dragon.
And speaking of, it’s never explained why the mature dragon chose a very matured woman to bond with. (In the book it’s explained that most bonding takes place during puberty, even for the dragons.) I guess Rin is just special and there’s nothing more to it?
I don’t know if there’s a sequel planned and if maybe these things get answered in a later book. Id be interested in reading it if there is, but currently there’s no evidence of one existing unless the author posts about it on her socials.
Overall, the book is well written (and more mature than fourth wing in my opinion) but there’s a lot of elements that weren’t put into it and make the overall story seem lackluster. It’s like no one had a motive for really doing anything other than they wanted to. The villains reveal and then downfall wasn’t that great either. There was no sense of urgency in this book to uncover the mastermind behind the sick people and dragons. And even when it was revealed what they were doing, it’s like an entire new element to it was added in to make it seem more dramatic when you never got to see it play out earlier in the book anyway to cause any uproar. Only when the climax of the fight occurred did we see it, and even then it was like … huh ?
Anyway, I think this is the authors debut novel, so it’s not too bad for a first book. There’s always room for improvement and the only way to do that is to keep writing!
September 16, 2023
This was the author's debut book and I found it very entertaining, fun, and sweet. It is a standalone but I think there is quite a lot more to this world that the author could explore so hopefully she will revisit it in the future.
June 1, 2025
I enjoyed the first 50%, but after that the main characters seemed to morph into chemistry-less atoms sharing space. I just didn't feel anything other than physical attraction between them. He seemed disengaged outside of his many many many"dark" "hooded" gazes, and there were too many strange side things that he did that were just glossed over. Also, tons of plot holes and loose ends...it felt like two different authors wrote this book swapping spaces at 50% ... I still can't wrap my head around the last half.... like, what happened. it felt like the author started out in love with their story, and then half way through filed for divorce and took the house and dog with them.
I will say that I was really enjoying it for awhile though...Rake was [go-to-bat-for] book boyfriend material, and Rin was a self aware strong character with steel ovaries. While I wish there would have been a bit more world building, and more overall depth (needed a 100 more pages at least), I did also find myself skimming here and there at 70ish% and was glad when it was over.
Overall, would I recommend it? Eh, yes, and no. I think a ton of people will be into it, and some just won't be. if you start to question characters around 60% like I did, abort ...
*****spoilers*****
1) arrested her, burned her ... locked her in a dark cold cell for 2 years that caused her crippling anxiety which she never got over. Then this doosh-nozzle took a "was just doing my job" cop-out.... he didn't do that to the theif who was on trial at the beginning of the book. I kept waiting for the apology and figured it was coming...when I realized it wasn't, i sorta despised him.
2) poof, all the sudden were told their mates at 98%??? mates are a thing?????? if its a way to reference a girlfriend and is not referencing a fated bond....why is it not used anywhere else in the book?
3) What is the weird power that caused her to heal after falling from a cliff and shattering her bones? Just their mysterious bond...?...which also never gets explained. like the ability where her dragon snaps out of the thrall, like the bond taking place so late in life between them, like the motive for the true villain(whomever that is), like the reason rin and rake feel so connected....etc
4) shes hurt and in an infirmy while he dines with a princess instead of checking on her even once...i wanted her to end up with Zayne so bad at this point!!!
5) He lies to her, then gaslights her about it.
6) She would hold a ketchup popsicle in 100 degree heat while wearing her favorite white gloves for this guy...my gosh...a few orgasms and all the sudden her backbone snaps. dont worry about that though, shes apparently a magical gumby that just bounces back from anything and has beer flavored nips.
7) he has major pick-me vibes
SMH...there was such potential.
I will say that I was really enjoying it for awhile though...Rake was [go-to-bat-for] book boyfriend material, and Rin was a self aware strong character with steel ovaries. While I wish there would have been a bit more world building, and more overall depth (needed a 100 more pages at least), I did also find myself skimming here and there at 70ish% and was glad when it was over.
Overall, would I recommend it? Eh, yes, and no. I think a ton of people will be into it, and some just won't be. if you start to question characters around 60% like I did, abort ...
*****spoilers*****
1) arrested her, burned her ... locked her in a dark cold cell for 2 years that caused her crippling anxiety which she never got over. Then this doosh-nozzle took a "was just doing my job" cop-out.... he didn't do that to the theif who was on trial at the beginning of the book. I kept waiting for the apology and figured it was coming...when I realized it wasn't, i sorta despised him.
2) poof, all the sudden were told their mates at 98%??? mates are a thing?????? if its a way to reference a girlfriend and is not referencing a fated bond....why is it not used anywhere else in the book?
3) What is the weird power that caused her to heal after falling from a cliff and shattering her bones? Just their mysterious bond...?...which also never gets explained. like the ability where her dragon snaps out of the thrall, like the bond taking place so late in life between them, like the motive for the true villain(whomever that is), like the reason rin and rake feel so connected....etc
4) shes hurt and in an infirmy while he dines with a princess instead of checking on her even once...i wanted her to end up with Zayne so bad at this point!!!
5) He lies to her, then gaslights her about it.
6) She would hold a ketchup popsicle in 100 degree heat while wearing her favorite white gloves for this guy...my gosh...a few orgasms and all the sudden her backbone snaps. dont worry about that though, shes apparently a magical gumby that just bounces back from anything and has beer flavored nips.
7) he has major pick-me vibes
SMH...there was such potential.
March 13, 2023
Great!
I can’t get over the cover. I literally cannot take my eyes off of it. It is absolutely stunning.
I also really loved this world Ms Ford created. It’s a really neat spin on dragons and dragon riding. It has action, adventure, and romance (definitely on the spicier side). I loved the banter and angst with the characters, but also the interactions the dragons had with each other. Skye and Naasir were fun to read!
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from Ms Ford!!!
I can’t get over the cover. I literally cannot take my eyes off of it. It is absolutely stunning.
I also really loved this world Ms Ford created. It’s a really neat spin on dragons and dragon riding. It has action, adventure, and romance (definitely on the spicier side). I loved the banter and angst with the characters, but also the interactions the dragons had with each other. Skye and Naasir were fun to read!
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from Ms Ford!!!
March 12, 2023
Terrific and action-packed fantasy read. Rin, Rake, their dragons(!!!!!!), and the entire cast of characters immediately draw you in, and I loved the dragon rider world. Looking forward to more in this series :)
Side note: Looks like each book features a different couple within a larger story arc.
Side note: Looks like each book features a different couple within a larger story arc.
January 14, 2024
dnf- 42% of the way through.
I was really intrigued in the beginning and liked our main character, but it just felt like reading fan fiction after a while. The insta-love was strange, especially when at first it seemed like an enemies to lovers situation. The only thing I really liked about it was the dragons.
I was really intrigued in the beginning and liked our main character, but it just felt like reading fan fiction after a while. The insta-love was strange, especially when at first it seemed like an enemies to lovers situation. The only thing I really liked about it was the dragons.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2023
Fantasy romance at its best! This book had it all: action, mystery, a fierce and feisty heroine, a swoon-worthy love interest, an enthralling new fantasy world, steamy romance, and - of course - dragons! If you love any (or all) of those things and are looking for a book to lose yourself in, grab yourself a copy of Wild Bond - you will not be disappointed!
August 18, 2023
Wild Bonds was a fun and intriguing book about a young career criminal who has been imprisoned for 2 years for a Royal theft. When she is up for “reconsideration” by the Royal spy, a shocking revelation leads to a major shift in her future! Great for lovers of Throne of Glass and Fourth Wing, but in my opinion it just doesn’t quite compare! There were aspects of this book that I thought were fun and unique, and I did enjoy reading it, so I would definitely still recommend it if you’re looking for a romantasy to read!
June 13, 2023
what an absolutely lovely surprise
with so few reviews but all of them quite positive, i knew i’d have a gem on my hands! and i was right!!! wow — this was sweet, emotional, and genuinely well written fantasy adventure with some beautiful romance. i’m usually an enemies to lovers girl, but rake & rin were simply a love story to die for.
with so few reviews but all of them quite positive, i knew i’d have a gem on my hands! and i was right!!! wow — this was sweet, emotional, and genuinely well written fantasy adventure with some beautiful romance. i’m usually an enemies to lovers girl, but rake & rin were simply a love story to die for.
May 10, 2023
Entertaining and imaginative
Good story without wasting time on long sex scenes.
New twist on dragons and heroes and almost a stand alone book.
Good story without wasting time on long sex scenes.
New twist on dragons and heroes and almost a stand alone book.
May 30, 2023
2 stars. DNF at 50%. Typical "coming of age" type story. Lowly girl is plucked from miserable existence to attend a school of privileged: Check. Girl is singled out and bullied: Check. Enigmatic super-stud warrior befriends our girl and treats her special: Check. Insta-love ensues between our girl and special warrior: Check. Something nefarious is going on in the royal palace/city that only our girl and super stud suspect and probably eventually solve: Check. That's about where I stopped. I can only assume that the remainder of the story will involve false accusations against our special couple (that they will no doubt overcome and eventually resolve). Probably a love triangle that they will survive as well. *Yawn*
July 16, 2023
I got sick the weekend I started this book and I was HAPPY about it because it gave me an excuse to stay in bed and read this book all day. This was my first time reading an Adult Romance Fantasy and I loved both aspects in this book. Neither one outweighed the other, they both shined brightly. The world Ford created with the dragons and those bonded to them was unique and enthralling. The dialogue was crisp. And the descriptions painted a vivid picture. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
July 18, 2023
My complaint is:
- it needed to be a 2-book series
- it needed dual POVs
I was impressed overall with the authors writing style and the story itself. I DID figure it out 🙃 but that’s okay! I still enjoyed the suspense of the storyline and their love story.
I do think he could have bit slightly more possessive (not coming to her sooner after the trials was weird). But I loved the banter, the fact that it didn’t take them 90% of the book to get together and the DRAGONS! Skye was such a great edition.
All in all, I’d read more by this author!
- it needed to be a 2-book series
- it needed dual POVs
I was impressed overall with the authors writing style and the story itself. I DID figure it out 🙃 but that’s okay! I still enjoyed the suspense of the storyline and their love story.
I do think he could have bit slightly more possessive (not coming to her sooner after the trials was weird). But I loved the banter, the fact that it didn’t take them 90% of the book to get together and the DRAGONS! Skye was such a great edition.
All in all, I’d read more by this author!
September 6, 2023
This book had so much promise, the relationship between dragon and its bonded rider was so interesting and unique. Unfortunately the rest of the story fell short for me, especially the romance. The interactions were cringe worthy, to the point I almost dreaded the steamy portions. Who describes sex as “velvet claws raked deep in my belly at the sheer decadence of it”? 🙄
February 23, 2024
A fun “junk-food read. Written in the (2023 popularized) Dragon Rider Military Academy trope. L.Ford does well in her debut novel. Wild Bond comes in at 3 stars, loosing points for not sticking the “ending.”
I saw another review that called “Wild Bond” fan fiction. Though I wouldn’t go that far, this book is set within a “Dragon Rider Military Academy” which has become its own book genre recently.
And yes, this plot has an outcast heroine who unexpectedly bonds with an amazing dragon. There is indeed a tall handsome military Hero. And Mr buffness also just happens to be bonded to his own kick ass dragon. And together they and their love conquer the world. . . . . (Ok that last part -tongue and cheek. . just kidding.)
But seriously the bones of the story you will recognize. You’ve seen it before. However, you’re not here for something complete new, out-of-the box-original crazy. If the formula works go with it! And let’s face it, both comfort food and comfort troupes are just that yummy.
There is enough originality in the world building that you don’t feel like this is a complete rip off of other novels. The plot is self-contained within this single book. No cliff hangers, this isn’t’ trying to be another 5-book series. Something is amiss, there is a mystery. There is a villain. Who could it be? All sandwiched between our H&h falling for each other.
Con’s: The ending felt rushed. Like wait did you hit send and a few chapters accidently got overwritten and are now missing in the final draft? Not rushed enough to ruin the book but rushed enough that I had to dock star power.
The plot also lost itself there at the end. I found it jarring. It felt like the author threw some directionally ending "type phrases" together and called and wrote The End and submitted it for a grade. One of the quintessential planks most romance tropes is the HEA. That's what keeps us coming back for our junk-food. As an author it's your job to spell it out, tie off all the loose ends, wrap it up in a nice bow and present it as the perfect package. Let’s face it the human brain remember the start and the end. So submitting a sloppy ending . . . that is not something that can be easily overlooked/forgive. As an author you got to grab the reader and pull them in at the front of the book and you got to stick the landing with the finally. Ford didn't, more star power deducted.
With a proven formula to follow this should have been an easy 4 stars, but I could only round “Wild Bond” up to 3 stars.
@Laurie Ford re-write that ending! Publish an epilogue or two. Super easy extra credit available to bring that star rating back up!
I saw another review that called “Wild Bond” fan fiction. Though I wouldn’t go that far, this book is set within a “Dragon Rider Military Academy” which has become its own book genre recently.
And yes, this plot has an outcast heroine who unexpectedly bonds with an amazing dragon. There is indeed a tall handsome military Hero. And Mr buffness also just happens to be bonded to his own kick ass dragon. And together they and their love conquer the world. . . . . (Ok that last part -tongue and cheek. . just kidding.)
But seriously the bones of the story you will recognize. You’ve seen it before. However, you’re not here for something complete new, out-of-the box-original crazy. If the formula works go with it! And let’s face it, both comfort food and comfort troupes are just that yummy.
There is enough originality in the world building that you don’t feel like this is a complete rip off of other novels. The plot is self-contained within this single book. No cliff hangers, this isn’t’ trying to be another 5-book series. Something is amiss, there is a mystery. There is a villain. Who could it be? All sandwiched between our H&h falling for each other.
Con’s: The ending felt rushed. Like wait did you hit send and a few chapters accidently got overwritten and are now missing in the final draft? Not rushed enough to ruin the book but rushed enough that I had to dock star power.
The plot also lost itself there at the end. I found it jarring. It felt like the author threw some directionally ending "type phrases" together and called and wrote The End and submitted it for a grade. One of the quintessential planks most romance tropes is the HEA. That's what keeps us coming back for our junk-food. As an author it's your job to spell it out, tie off all the loose ends, wrap it up in a nice bow and present it as the perfect package. Let’s face it the human brain remember the start and the end. So submitting a sloppy ending . . . that is not something that can be easily overlooked/forgive. As an author you got to grab the reader and pull them in at the front of the book and you got to stick the landing with the finally. Ford didn't, more star power deducted.
With a proven formula to follow this should have been an easy 4 stars, but I could only round “Wild Bond” up to 3 stars.
@Laurie Ford re-write that ending! Publish an epilogue or two. Super easy extra credit available to bring that star rating back up!
March 13, 2023
The book begins with our heroine as a prisoner, marched to a meeting with her fellow prisoners to face the persons who put her there. There is a marked chance she could be put to death, but circumstances beyond anyone's control change her fate in an instant. Corrine, our heroine, is a lifelong law breaker. Forced into her situation by the unfairness of life, she is set against Rake, the handsome and powerful law keeper. An impossible chain of events places them on the same side. They stumble upon a mystery within the kingdom, one that threatens everything Corrine knows.
This book is an unmatched expression of creativity from a new author. The world and characters come to life on the page, the romance hits all the right notes, and the adventure sweeps you along with it. Though just one book in a sea of fantasy options, it feels fresh and inventive. The stakes are real and there are moments of genuine tension that leave the reader clutching the book. The heroine is refreshingly realistic, avoiding the "Mary Sue" characterization. The relationship between dragon and rider provides a friendship and core to the story. It's a marvelous sample of escapist literature for adults.
Though an excellent first novel, the story is not without its flaws. The voice of our protagonist is at times too young adult. This contrasts scenes in the book that are more suited to an adult audience. This places the book in between audiences. It could still find a landing amongst adult romance readers who can appreciate a younger tone, but is something to consider. The mystery falls into the background and at some points, feels underdeveloped. Motivations by antagonists are vague when contrasted by the lead characters. This is somewhat a subjective complaint, but if you prefer a stronger villain, you may not enjoy the book as much.
Overall I'd recommend this read. Though it has its flaws, it's a wonderful piece of escapist literature from a burgeoning new talent. Can't wait to see what subsequent works the author produces!
This book is an unmatched expression of creativity from a new author. The world and characters come to life on the page, the romance hits all the right notes, and the adventure sweeps you along with it. Though just one book in a sea of fantasy options, it feels fresh and inventive. The stakes are real and there are moments of genuine tension that leave the reader clutching the book. The heroine is refreshingly realistic, avoiding the "Mary Sue" characterization. The relationship between dragon and rider provides a friendship and core to the story. It's a marvelous sample of escapist literature for adults.
Though an excellent first novel, the story is not without its flaws. The voice of our protagonist is at times too young adult. This contrasts scenes in the book that are more suited to an adult audience. This places the book in between audiences. It could still find a landing amongst adult romance readers who can appreciate a younger tone, but is something to consider. The mystery falls into the background and at some points, feels underdeveloped. Motivations by antagonists are vague when contrasted by the lead characters. This is somewhat a subjective complaint, but if you prefer a stronger villain, you may not enjoy the book as much.
Overall I'd recommend this read. Though it has its flaws, it's a wonderful piece of escapist literature from a burgeoning new talent. Can't wait to see what subsequent works the author produces!
June 19, 2025
Plot and romance, and best of all...dragons!
Story: 3.75/5 ⭐️
Spice: 3 🌶/5
Pace: Medium
This book had a good plot and direction. It was a little predictable in some areas, but not all, and not enough to make me annoyed. There was one unfinished plot point that left the author open to write more but overall wrapped up this particular book nicely. And I definitely don't have ideas on what character could be involved! I see there's a second book so Im definitely curious!
I liked the idea of the FMC. She comes off as strong, stubborn and independent - but she doesn't fully act that way? She repeats everything the mmc says and doesnt seem to be able to use her brain and think for herself. I love a smart and cunning FMC. Rin is not that, so that was a tad frustrating. Otherwise she'd of been a very likeable character.
On top of that, the relationship between the fmc/mmc is kind of weird? I wasnt really feeling it. I like when couples don't have too much angst against each other in books and spend time together and we actually enjoy their relationship. But I felt like the MMC liked her for no reason. She never did anything and they never had a good conversation that made it seem like they connected and had tension. It was all very surface level and I craved something a little more layered and deep.
Characters aside, I loved the dragons/bonds. I thought the take on their minor forms was different and enjoyable. I do think that it would have been very believable for the dragons, intelligent as they are, to be able to speak the humans language better and have a little more book time that way. I didn't dislike how the author had them communicate, though. Just craved more from them! Overall a decent read and would recommend for a book that has plot and romance.
Story: 3.75/5 ⭐️
Spice: 3 🌶/5
Pace: Medium
This book had a good plot and direction. It was a little predictable in some areas, but not all, and not enough to make me annoyed. There was one unfinished plot point that left the author open to write more but overall wrapped up this particular book nicely. And I definitely don't have ideas on what character could be involved! I see there's a second book so Im definitely curious!
I liked the idea of the FMC. She comes off as strong, stubborn and independent - but she doesn't fully act that way? She repeats everything the mmc says and doesnt seem to be able to use her brain and think for herself. I love a smart and cunning FMC. Rin is not that, so that was a tad frustrating. Otherwise she'd of been a very likeable character.
On top of that, the relationship between the fmc/mmc is kind of weird? I wasnt really feeling it. I like when couples don't have too much angst against each other in books and spend time together and we actually enjoy their relationship. But I felt like the MMC liked her for no reason. She never did anything and they never had a good conversation that made it seem like they connected and had tension. It was all very surface level and I craved something a little more layered and deep.
Characters aside, I loved the dragons/bonds. I thought the take on their minor forms was different and enjoyable. I do think that it would have been very believable for the dragons, intelligent as they are, to be able to speak the humans language better and have a little more book time that way. I didn't dislike how the author had them communicate, though. Just craved more from them! Overall a decent read and would recommend for a book that has plot and romance.
December 20, 2023
This is a typical dragon rider book with a training/school and competition type of plot structure. I’ve read books like this that are a lot worse and others that are much better than this one. Rin is older than most when she bonds with her dragon named Skye who is also older for a bonded dragon. They participate in training to become certified dragon riders for the queen. Rin must train with other individuals who are younger than her. While the trainees close in age to her don’t like her very much. Most of the minor characters she encounters are likable, but also forgettable.
Her love interest is Commander Rakim who teaches her how to fly. He is the queen’s spymaster. The main reason I did not like this book is because of their relationship. There was an uneven balance of power between them that was not appealing to me. His character comes off as being the older, more experienced, wiser, well-respected type of character. While Rin is the inexperienced, juvenile, and more foolish counterpart. Their conversations were awkward and uncomfortable. The part that bothered me was when Rakim would tell her what to do, she would respond in a childish manner, and then right afterwards fantasize about how attractive she found him. Imagine a father figure and an inexperienced person being forced to fit into a romantic relationship mold when it doesn't fit right. They just didn't jive well together for me. I think they were supposed to be about the same age, but I’m not sure. I stopped reading at 27%.
Her love interest is Commander Rakim who teaches her how to fly. He is the queen’s spymaster. The main reason I did not like this book is because of their relationship. There was an uneven balance of power between them that was not appealing to me. His character comes off as being the older, more experienced, wiser, well-respected type of character. While Rin is the inexperienced, juvenile, and more foolish counterpart. Their conversations were awkward and uncomfortable. The part that bothered me was when Rakim would tell her what to do, she would respond in a childish manner, and then right afterwards fantasize about how attractive she found him. Imagine a father figure and an inexperienced person being forced to fit into a romantic relationship mold when it doesn't fit right. They just didn't jive well together for me. I think they were supposed to be about the same age, but I’m not sure. I stopped reading at 27%.
June 5, 2023
A bit disappointed
This would have been a five stars if there weren’t so many plot holes that had me confused a good amount of the time. The world especially was super appealing to me because it’s very hard to write about dragon riding without using the same old tricks that have been used time and time again. The world felt really original to me and I loved the concept. However, I deeply feel that story could been written way better. Their were so many ideas that were portrayed that could’ve been focused on and made this an epic dragon adventure story but I feel the author focused so much on the romance aspect (not that I didn’t like the romance because I very much enjoyed that part) that she completely forget how awesome the world she’s creating is. The storytelling felt a little half-assed and it didn’t help that when I got to the end the climax I was waiting for wasn’t climaxing at all. A bit disappointed but the world building made up for what the story itself lacked. The dragon interactions were super cute and funny and made me enjoy the book enough to keep reading till the end.
This would have been a five stars if there weren’t so many plot holes that had me confused a good amount of the time. The world especially was super appealing to me because it’s very hard to write about dragon riding without using the same old tricks that have been used time and time again. The world felt really original to me and I loved the concept. However, I deeply feel that story could been written way better. Their were so many ideas that were portrayed that could’ve been focused on and made this an epic dragon adventure story but I feel the author focused so much on the romance aspect (not that I didn’t like the romance because I very much enjoyed that part) that she completely forget how awesome the world she’s creating is. The storytelling felt a little half-assed and it didn’t help that when I got to the end the climax I was waiting for wasn’t climaxing at all. A bit disappointed but the world building made up for what the story itself lacked. The dragon interactions were super cute and funny and made me enjoy the book enough to keep reading till the end.
August 21, 2024
3.25/5.
Hm, pretty generic for a dragon romantasy. The romance itself was fairly non-compelling, so that made the overall story a bit bland. I'm not sure I'll read the second in the series.
What I liked:
- Miniature versions of dragons! That dragons can shrink down to a miniature size to hang with their rider indoors was a cute element.
- That the FMC Rin was placed in Civics 101 with the wee hatchling kids who had only just bonded with their dragon.
- The reveal of the identity of the culprit at the end.
What I didn't like:
- There wasn't a lot driving the relationship between Rin and the MMC Rake. I kept expecting to find out they were fated, or something like that, to explain his instance attraction towards her. Without that element, it didn't make sense why he would instantly feel protective over a thief he doesn't know.
- There was too much going on for a book of this length. Rider training, rider trials, a missing persons case, a low-level crime boss, post-war tension between two neighboring countries, a mysterious dragon ailment. The plot could've used some significant trimming and expansion of what was left.
Hm, pretty generic for a dragon romantasy. The romance itself was fairly non-compelling, so that made the overall story a bit bland. I'm not sure I'll read the second in the series.
What I liked:
- Miniature versions of dragons! That dragons can shrink down to a miniature size to hang with their rider indoors was a cute element.
- That the FMC Rin was placed in Civics 101 with the wee hatchling kids who had only just bonded with their dragon.
- The reveal of the identity of the culprit at the end.
What I didn't like:
- There wasn't a lot driving the relationship between Rin and the MMC Rake. I kept expecting to find out they were fated, or something like that, to explain his instance attraction towards her. Without that element, it didn't make sense why he would instantly feel protective over a thief he doesn't know.
- There was too much going on for a book of this length. Rider training, rider trials, a missing persons case, a low-level crime boss, post-war tension between two neighboring countries, a mysterious dragon ailment. The plot could've used some significant trimming and expansion of what was left.
October 2, 2025
Dear Wild Bond,
Aka that one like Fourth Wing….. well, I mean you did have dragons and the MC was her superior but this was more “hot for teacher” than just the older guy.
I finally read this after having it take up space on my KU limit.
I didn’t hate it. There are so many things that I enjoyed, the FMC for one. The bond between her and her dragon as well.
There were things I really didn’t like. I don’t like to continued description of women being small/smaller. The “more feminine” tattoos they were given….. the “she doesn’t know she’s pretty” but now everyone it telling her how beautiful she is. Granted, she did more than just take of some glasses but still some serious eye rolling.
Review Breakdown:
Characters: 3⭐️ they were fine
Setting: 3⭐️ again fine, considering it wasn’t the point.
Plot: 2.5⭐️ I mean it felt like it dragged but spend up and completely resolved in like 5 chapters with so much not explained
Themes: 3⭐️ fine
Emotional Impact: 3⭐️
Personal Enjoyment: 3.5⭐️ I’m glad I got around to it and it was entertaining. I won’t ever pick this up again and I won’t read the next in the series.
Aka that one like Fourth Wing….. well, I mean you did have dragons and the MC was her superior but this was more “hot for teacher” than just the older guy.
I finally read this after having it take up space on my KU limit.
I didn’t hate it. There are so many things that I enjoyed, the FMC for one. The bond between her and her dragon as well.
There were things I really didn’t like. I don’t like to continued description of women being small/smaller. The “more feminine” tattoos they were given….. the “she doesn’t know she’s pretty” but now everyone it telling her how beautiful she is. Granted, she did more than just take of some glasses but still some serious eye rolling.
Review Breakdown:
Characters: 3⭐️ they were fine
Setting: 3⭐️ again fine, considering it wasn’t the point.
Plot: 2.5⭐️ I mean it felt like it dragged but spend up and completely resolved in like 5 chapters with so much not explained
Themes: 3⭐️ fine
Emotional Impact: 3⭐️
Personal Enjoyment: 3.5⭐️ I’m glad I got around to it and it was entertaining. I won’t ever pick this up again and I won’t read the next in the series.
April 9, 2025
3.4 stars
Just read this a second time through a year later. Couldn’t understand why I hadn’t rated it the first time. Now I do though!
I definitely had a good time with it, it’s just that the writing isn’t quite where I would want it for a higher rating. Dragons, and how they were represented, absolutely made this book.
Much of it is well considered in terms of the world, the plot and the action. Other items like the relationships, which are kind of tropey and basic, and the writing could use some editing for word choice, etc. All in all, a decent offering. Especially since it held up to a second read through, even if I wasn’t enthralled as I remember being.
Also, booooo on the cover! Why is there no dragon??? Am I supposed to care more about the romance than the dragon? The title doesn’t even hint at there being dragons. With all the fated mate books out there I would have thought that would be at the center of it. I’m absolutely fine that it was not.
Just read this a second time through a year later. Couldn’t understand why I hadn’t rated it the first time. Now I do though!
I definitely had a good time with it, it’s just that the writing isn’t quite where I would want it for a higher rating. Dragons, and how they were represented, absolutely made this book.
Much of it is well considered in terms of the world, the plot and the action. Other items like the relationships, which are kind of tropey and basic, and the writing could use some editing for word choice, etc. All in all, a decent offering. Especially since it held up to a second read through, even if I wasn’t enthralled as I remember being.
Also, booooo on the cover! Why is there no dragon??? Am I supposed to care more about the romance than the dragon? The title doesn’t even hint at there being dragons. With all the fated mate books out there I would have thought that would be at the center of it. I’m absolutely fine that it was not.
October 29, 2023
Wow a self-published book that was good!
Yes, the story was adorable and the world building was solid. I felt connected to this place and our two main characters. Yes, the evil plot was pretty obvious but I was here more for the fun of it so it didn't bother me. Although the author did still get me on who the main mastermind was right until the reveal at the end. It gave me cozy vibes as yes it had some stakes but it was balanced with cute dragons. I really feel like this story would be a great Manga or Anime. The dragon personality are well written and truly are characters unto themselves. It would be fun to see in an animated medium.
Overall:
Yay, standalone (for a change)
A touch of spice
It has an age gap (about ten years)
He's her grumpy trainer
She's no push over but has her weaknesses
Dragons are so freaking cute!
Gives me cozy vibes
Yes, the story was adorable and the world building was solid. I felt connected to this place and our two main characters. Yes, the evil plot was pretty obvious but I was here more for the fun of it so it didn't bother me. Although the author did still get me on who the main mastermind was right until the reveal at the end. It gave me cozy vibes as yes it had some stakes but it was balanced with cute dragons. I really feel like this story would be a great Manga or Anime. The dragon personality are well written and truly are characters unto themselves. It would be fun to see in an animated medium.
Overall:
Yay, standalone (for a change)
A touch of spice
It has an age gap (about ten years)
He's her grumpy trainer
She's no push over but has her weaknesses
Dragons are so freaking cute!
Gives me cozy vibes
June 11, 2023
hard read- lots of plot holes
The concept is great and different but there were so many plot holes that it didn’t feel like a full story. Also the “enemies to lovers trope” wasn’t fleshed out very well they almost immediately fall for each other which ruined the idea of enemies to lovers they weren’t enemies long enough it just felt like love at first sight. I wish the training center was fleshed out more but it wasn’t. It was a hard read and by the time I was halfway through the book I wanted to just skip to last few pages to see what happened but forced myself to continue reading and I regret it because there was still gaping holes in the story yet it had a “happy” ending?
The concept is great and different but there were so many plot holes that it didn’t feel like a full story. Also the “enemies to lovers trope” wasn’t fleshed out very well they almost immediately fall for each other which ruined the idea of enemies to lovers they weren’t enemies long enough it just felt like love at first sight. I wish the training center was fleshed out more but it wasn’t. It was a hard read and by the time I was halfway through the book I wanted to just skip to last few pages to see what happened but forced myself to continue reading and I regret it because there was still gaping holes in the story yet it had a “happy” ending?
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